The Attorney-General’s Chambers assures that Malaysia’s sovereignty and national interests stay fully safeguarded under the reciprocal trade agreement signed with the US on October 26.
Malaysia will fulfil its duties under the deal only in line with local laws and procedures.
The agreement requires good-faith talks between the two nations on implementation issues before any action under Article 7.4(2).
Malaysia can end the pact anytime with written notice to the US, no consent needed, per Article 7.5.
These clauses aim to protect sovereignty and national interests always, the AGC said in a statement.
Signed at the 47th Asean Summit, the deal takes effect 60 days after both sides finish internal legal steps.
The investment, trade and industry ministry led talks with the US trade representative and secured Cabinet approval first.
Both countries will keep their World Trade Organization rights and duties, as noted in the agreement.
Critics include former prime minister Muhyiddin Yassin, who called it full of vague terms and hidden risks.
Former prime minister Mahathir Mohamad said he never thought independence would be given away in his time.
Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim brushed off their views as politically driven.
Other opposition figures worry about Malaysia having to follow US bans or curbs on third countries seen as threats to its economic or national security.
